If you’re dealing with severe gum disease, your dentist or periodontist might suggest a deep cleaning procedure called root planing and scaling. This treatment focuses on cleaning below the gumline, getting rid of the buildup of tartar, plaque, and bacteria that can make your gums worse. By smoothing out the roots of your teeth, it makes it harder for bacteria to stick around, helping your gums to heal. As you read on, we’ll go over the cost and other details of the procedure to help you understand what to expect. If you need a periodontist in Utah, we have offices in Salt Lake City and South Jordan and offer competitive pricing!
What Are Root Planing and Scaling?
Root planing and scaling are key procedures used to combat gum disease by targeting areas that regular cleanings can’t reach. During scaling, the dentist or hygienist carefully removes plaque and tartar from beneath the gumline. Root planing goes a step further, smoothing the surfaces of your tooth roots. This makes it harder for bacteria to cling to them and allows your gums to heal and reattach more securely. By addressing these hidden trouble spots, these treatments help restore the health of your gums and prevent the progression of gum disease.
Who Does It?
Root planing and scaling are often done by periodontists, specialists in preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum diseases. With advanced training, periodontists are particularly skilled at handling severe cases where bacteria have formed deep pockets beneath the gum line. When a periodontist performs this procedure, they don’t just clean the affected areas. They also use their expertise to make sure the treatment effectively stops the disease from progressing. Their specialized knowledge allows them to tailor the treatment to each patient’s needs, ensuring the roots are thoroughly smoothed and the gums have the best chance to heal and reattach.
Who Needs It?
If your gums are swollen, bleed easily, or have started to pull away from your teeth, you might be a candidate for this treatment. It’s particularly important if your dentist or periodontist has noticed deep pockets forming around your teeth, where bacteria can hide. Also be aware of persistent bad breath, or a feeling that your teeth are becoming loose.If you’ve experienced any of these signs, it’s a good idea to see your dentist for an evaluation. They can assess the condition of your gums and determine if this deep cleaning procedure is necessary to restore your gum health. Regular dental check-ups are also key, as your dentist can catch early signs of gum disease before you even notice them.
Scaling and Root Planing Cost
The cost of root planing and scaling can depend on a few things, like how serious your gum disease is, how many teeth need treatment, and where you live. On average, you might be looking at about $200 to $300 per section of your mouth, with most mouths divided into four sections. So, if you need the whole mouth treated, it could cost between $800 and $1,200. Some dental insurance plans might help cover some of the costs, especially if your dentist says the procedure is medically necessary. But insurance coverage can vary a lot, so it’s worth checking with your provider to see what they’ll cover.
Even though the cost might seem high upfront, getting root planing and scaling done can actually save you money in the long run. It helps prevent your gum disease from getting worse, which could lead to more expensive treatments like surgery or even replacing teeth.
How The Procedure Goes
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Before the Procedure
Before you have root planing and scaling done, your dentist or periodontist will likely have a thorough discussion with you about the procedure. They might take some X-rays to see how much plaque and tartar have built up and to check the health of your gums and teeth. They’ll also let you know what to expect and answer any questions you might have. On the day of the procedure, they’ll apply a local anesthetic to numb the area. The goal is to have you feel no pain during the procedure.
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During the Procedure
During the procedure, your dentist or periodontist will start by carefully cleaning out the plaque and tartar from below your gumline. Once the scaling is done, they’ll move on to root planing. This helps your gums reattach to your teeth and makes it harder for bacteria to wreak havoc in the future. The entire process can take about an hour or so per section of your mouth. So, depending on how much work needs to be done, you might need more than one visit to complete it.
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After the Procedure
After the procedure, it’s normal to have some sensitivity or discomfort in your gums for a few days. Luckily, this should gradually ease up. Your dentist might recommend some over-the-counter pain relievers to help with any discomfort. You’ll also be given instructions on how to care for your gums and teeth at home. This might include using a special mouthwash or brushing more gently. It’s important to keep up with these recommendations to help your gums heal properly. You’ll likely have a follow-up visit scheduled so your dentist can check on your progress and make sure everything is healing well. With good care, root planing and scaling can be a big step toward getting your gum health back on track.
How Many Appointments You’ll Need
You’ll likely need a few appointments to get root planing and scaling done, depending on how bad your gum disease is. The dentist usually divides your mouth into four sections and treats one section at a time. This means you might need two to four visits to finish the whole process. Your periodontist will help you plan these visits, making sure there’s enough time between them for your gums to start healing.
Risks and Benefits
Root planing and scaling come with some risks, but the benefits usually outweigh them, especially if you have gum disease. The main risks include some temporary discomfort or sensitivity in your gums and teeth after the procedure. There’s also a small chance of infection if your gums are particularly sensitive, but your dentist will give you tips to help prevent that. On the flip side, the benefits are significant. This treatment can stop gum disease from getting worse, help your gums heal, and protect your teeth from further damage. By getting rid of the bacteria and buildup below the gumline, root planing and scaling can really improve your oral health and keep your gums and teeth in better shape for the long run.
What To Do After Surgery
Here’s a quick overview of what to do after your root planing and scaling:
1.Take It Easy on Your Gums: Stick to soft foods for the first few days to avoid irritating your gums.
2. Brush Gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be gentle when brushing to avoid aggravating the treated areas.
3. Rinse with a Saltwater Solution: This can help soothe your gums and keep the area clean—just mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.
4. Avoid Smoking: If you smoke, try to avoid it while your gums heal, as smoking can slow down the healing process.
5. Keep Up with Follow-Up Visits: Be sure to attend any follow-up appointments so your dentist can check on your progress and make sure everything’s healing well.
The Root Planing and Scaling Guide Conclusion
Taking care of your gums is key to maintaining overall oral health. Root planing and scaling are important treatments for those dealing with gum disease, helping to remove harmful buildup and allowing your gums to heal. Recognizing the signs of serious gum issues and getting timely treatment can make all the difference in preventing further complications. If you’re concerned about your gum health and need expert care, contact us at Utah Periodontal Specialists. Whether you’re looking to prevent gum disease from starting or need treatment for existing issues, we offer a variety of solutions tailored to your needs. Serving the SLC and South Jordan areas, we’re here to help you keep your smile healthy and strong.
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